Local artist launches book on Wiltshire’s rivers

An artist based in Crockerton has released a new book of illustrations inspired by five local chalk rivers.

Nick Andrew’s book, Confluence, features drawings created on location at the Rivers Avon, Bourne, Ebble, Madder and Wylye.

“These five rivers define the geography of south Wiltshire, flowing towards, through and close to Salisbury,” he said.

“During the 18 months I spent on this project, I discovered and made drawings in some stunning and magical locations, often seemingly unchanged for generations.

“The experience and joy of working in each of these special places has helped me develop a greater understanding of them.”

Copies of Confluence cost £15, with 10 per cent of proceeds donated to the Wessex Rivers Trust, an environmental charity dedicated to conserving chalk streams and rivers in Wessex.

Original drawings from the book are currently on display at Nick’s exhibition at Shaftesbury Arts Centre and will remain there until Tuesday 9th June as part of Dorset Art Weeks.

He said each drawing includes a written narrative describing wildlife, sounds, encounters, weather and other observations from his time working on location. Larger scale canvases on the same chalk river theme are also included.

Nick is sharing the exhibition with his partner, Tanya Hinton, who is showing wildlife paintings on reclaimed surfaces, alongside jewellery designer Liz Tyler.

For more information and to purchase the book, visit https://nickandrewdrawingprojects.wordpress.com/confluence/